President Bola Tinubu on Monday assured Nigerians that the creation of state police would not be delayed, saying his administration remains committed to tackling insecurity across the country.
The President spoke during an interfaith breaking of fast held at the Presidential Banquet Hall in Abuja to mark the first Iftar of the 2026 Ramadan season. The event brought together governors, senior government officials, and religious leaders from across the country.
Tinubu said the promise to establish state police remains firm despite ongoing debates about how it will be structured and funded.
“What I promise you will not be postponed. We will establish state police to combat insecurity,” the President said.
The issue of state police has been widely discussed in Nigeria for many years. Currently, policing in Nigeria is controlled by the Federal Government through the Nigeria Police Force. However, many leaders and experts have argued that giving states the power to manage their own police would help address local security challenges more effectively.
Supporters say state police would allow faster response to crime and better knowledge of local communities. Critics, however, fear it could be abused by state governments for political purposes. Tinubu’s latest statement signals that his administration is ready to move ahead with the reform.
In addition to security, the President also addressed concerns about the economy. Since taking office in 2023, his administration has introduced reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the exchange rate. These policies led to sharp increases in prices and economic hardship for many Nigerians.
However, Tinubu said the country has now moved past the most difficult phase.
“We are out of the woods. We are out of the dark tunnel of uncertainty. The economy is showing up,” he declared.
Nigeria has faced high inflation, rising food prices, and pressure on household incomes in recent years. The government has argued that the reforms were necessary to stabilise public finances and attract investment.
The President told governors that despite complaints and challenges, there are also signs of improvement. He said reports reaching him include both commendations and concerns from different states.
“There are a lot of complaints and commendations coming from all angles,” he said, adding that the best is yet to come for Nigeria if leaders work together.
The interfaith Iftar also provided an opportunity for the President to call for unity among political leaders.
He appealed to Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to show restraint amid political tensions in Kano State. Referring to recent developments reported in the media, Tinubu urged him to “temper justice with mercy.”
Tinubu also called for inclusiveness within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He asked party leaders and governors to give room to younger members and supporters.
“Those little ones too, they cry. Tolerate everybody. Let’s see the young ones breathe too,” he said.
The President’s remarks come at a time when internal party disagreements and political rivalry have been reported in some states. Observers say his message was aimed at promoting harmony within the party and across political lines.
He praised Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum for organising Ramadan outreach programmes that benefit both Muslims and Christians. Tinubu described the initiative as a strong example of unity and compassion.
The President also referred warmly to Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago, calling him “my son, the farmer from Niger,” while acknowledging the mix of feedback coming from different states.
The Iftar gathering was special because the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan is coinciding with the Christian Lenten season. This rare overlap has been seen by many leaders as a symbol of shared values such as sacrifice, discipline, and prayer.
Tinubu said the period calls for humility, love for neighbours, and service to humanity.
“You know what it means: discipline, sacrifice, faith, resilience and strong determination for us to continue to bridge together, pray together and love one another,” he said.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, who spoke on behalf of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum chairman, said the coincidence of Ramadan and Lent had not happened in over three decades.
He described it as a reminder that Nigerians should not allow religious and ethnic differences to shape their political actions.
Uzodimma praised Tinubu’s leadership and pledged continued cooperation between state governors and the Federal Government.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and several cabinet members attended the event. Many governors from across the country were also present.
Prayers were offered by the State House Chief Imam, Abdulwaheed Suleiman, for Muslims, and by Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas for Christians.
The dinner marked the third consecutive year that President Tinubu has hosted political and government leaders for Ramadan Iftar since assuming office.
As Nigeria continues to face security and economic challenges, the President’s promises on state police and economic recovery will likely remain central topics in public debate.
For many Nigerians, the key question is how soon these promises will translate into real improvements in daily life.
For now, the President has assured the nation that reforms are on course and that both security and economic stability remain top priorities of his administration.
